Charity delivers hampers to homeless hounds

The Dogs Trust will be helping dogs this Christmas.

Published:10:30Wednesday 11 December 2013

Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, will be delivering a record number of hampers to homeless dogs this Christmas as requests from hostels have soared by a staggering 24%, up from 850 last year to 1,050 this year.

The charity will be delivering gifts to hostels in Scotland for more than 82 dogs.

Every Christmas, through its Hope Project, the charity brings some festive cheer for homeless dogs by distributing canine hampers of collars, leads, coats, treats and toys to dogs and their owners.

The charity set up the unique Hope Project in 1994 and also offers free and subsidised veterinary treatment to dogs whose owners are homeless or living in temporary accommodation.

Clare Kivlehan, Dogs Trust Hope project manager, explains: “Everyone knows that the bond between a dog and its owner is a strong one but for homeless people their dog can sometimes be their only friend.

“Each year we’re delighted to be able to distribute these hampers to homeless hounds to help make Christmas happier for them and their owners and it is amazing that this year we will be able to reach over one thousand dogs.”

Homelessness organisations or veterinary surgeries interested in finding out more information about the scheme should call Dogs Trust on 020 7837 0006 or email hopeproject@dogstrust.org.uk.